We are forever looking to improve on the model we have at Priscan Archaeology whether that be research, search techniques or presenting our finds.Whilst producing satisfactory images for the website and other internet platforms, we thought that another step forward may enhance our enjoyment of what we do.

This step forward came from an initial suggestion from an archaeologist that specialises in high-tech archaeology. He asked if we'd ever tried photogrammetry? I couldn't even pronounce it never mind get my head around it!

Always up for a challenge, I thought that this may be quite useful, if it could be mastered!After a few attempts, success followed, but not to rest on any laurels, improvements could be made.

Equipment​Apart from having an interesting subject to photograph, the rest is down to equipment and software.The good news is that the software is free and extremely powerful.Unfortunately, you need a fairly decent computer and graphics card.Those who have a gaming PC or video editing PC should be okay to run the software to its capacity with ease.

Next up are the essential bits:​

a camera with full manual control over the aperture, shutter and focus with a macro facility (several compact cameras have these features s well as the big boys).

a tripod to cope with slow shutter speeds

an even light source casting no shadows whatsoever

a turntable to aid a smooth circular motion

There are several tutorials on how to achieve photogrammetry excellence.Once you master the basic requirements, further experience will help hone your technique.

The software I use is called 3D Zephyr and the link to their tutorials can be seen here.